Buying a property in Ashford? Whether it's your first home or you're upsizing to accommodate your growing family, a professional property survey is a smart move — especially in an area with such a diverse mix of old and new homes.
But once you’ve chosen a surveyor, what should you ask them?
At BuildPerception, we believe no question is too small when it comes to buying property. To help you feel confident and informed, here are 7 essential questions to ask your Ashford surveyor before (or after) your home inspection.
1. What Type of Survey Do You Recommend for This Property?
There’s no one-size-fits-all survey. The right choice depends on the age, size, and condition of the home.
Homebuyer Report (Level 2) – Good for modern properties in decent condition
Building Survey (Level 3) – Ideal for older homes or those with visible issues
Ashford has a mix of Victorian terraces, post-war semis, and new builds in areas like Finberry and Repton Park — all of which require a different survey approach.
2. What Are the Most Common Issues You See in Ashford Properties?
Local knowledge matters. In Ashford, surveyors often find:
Clay soil movement (leading to cracking or settlement)
Poor ventilation in newer homes
Outdated electrics in older properties
Unregulated loft conversions in 1930s and 1950s houses
A local surveyor like BuildPerception knows what to expect — and how to flag it properly.
3. Will You Go into the Loft, Check the Roof, and Look for Damp?
Not all surveys are equal. Be sure your surveyor will:
Access the loft space
Inspect the roof from ground level with the aid of a Drone
Use a damp meter during the inspection
Check for signs of mould, water ingress, and timber decay
These are all part of a standard RICS Building Survey from BuildPerception.
4. Can You Explain the Report in Simple Terms?
Property reports can be overwhelming — especially for first-time buyers. Ask your surveyor if they:
Offer follow-up support by phone or email
Use plain English in reports
Include photos to show defects clearly
At BuildPerception, we believe in no-jargon reports*— just clear advice you can act on.
5. What Should I Do If the Survey Finds Major Problems?
A good surveyor won’t just hand over a list of problems — they’ll guide you on what to do next:
Estimate repair costs (or recommend a specialist)
Highlight urgent vs. cosmetic issues
Help you decide whether to renegotiate your offer or walk away
6. Do You Offer Valuations or Cost Estimates?
Some buyers want a market valuation alongside the condition report. Others want repair cost estimates for budgeting or negotiation.
At BuildPerception, we offer:
Optional RICS valuations
Rough repair estimates upon request
Snagging surveys for new-builds in Ashford’s expanding developments
7. How Long Will It Take to Get My Report?
Timing matters — especially when you’re under offer and working to deadlines.
With BuildPerception, you’ll receive:
Homebuyer Reports within 1-2 working days
Building Surveys within 3 working days
Phone call summary available sooner if urgent
Why Trust BuildPerception in Ashford?
We’re local. We know Ashford’s housing quirks — from rural barn conversions to city centre townhouses. Our RICS-accredited surveyors offer:
Trusted advice backed by years of local experience
Fast turnaround and crystal-clear reports
Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
📞 Call BuildPerception on 01303 656066
💬 Or Request a Survey Quote for your Ashford home
📧 Email: alan@buildperception.com – we’ll respond quickly
Final Thought: Ask Questions Now, Avoid Regrets Later
Your survey is your safety net. Use it to your advantage by asking the right questions — and getting the answers you need to buy with confidence in Ashford.
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